Jelynne LeBlanc-Burley

CPS Energy exec promotes East Side development

By Tommie Ethington

Illustration By Ryan Inzana

Jelynne LeBlanc-Burley’s achievements are best explained through city landmarks. During a public service career that’s taken her from City Hall to CPS Energy, LeBlanc-Burley has contributed to economic and cultural development through projects, such as the Alamodome, the expansion of the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the renovation of the Carver Community Cultural Center. Now, she’s continuing to drive community investment as chair of the board of directors for San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside (SAGE).

Rooted in Development

The Louisiana native first moved to Texas in 1982 to pursue a masters at Trinity University. A internship with the city launched a career focused on everything from public works projects and bonds to housing policy. “If you look at my resume, it’s filled with newly created, very project-specific opportunities,” says LeBlanc-Burley, who eventually became deputy city manager for Planning and Development. “It’s quite rewarding for me now when I drive around San Antonio and see projects I worked on.”

Endless Energy

In 2008, she left the city to join CPS Energy, where as executive vice president and chief delivery officer she works to streamline processes for customers. Successfully serving the community means first being a part of it, says LeBlanc-Burley. “I feel a responsibility to be out in the community to understand how people interface with CPS Energy,” she says. “Being on nonprofit boards and understanding a broad breadth of business interests helps us to be nimble to our customer needs.”

Looking East

LeBlanc-Burley lived on San Antonio’s East Side for 10 years and says she’s been drawn to it ever since. “But aside from the personal significance,” she says, “the East Side has the potential to be a showcase for urban development.”

She joined SAGE’s board in 2010. The nonprofit that focuses on economic development has become a catalyst for growth both large and small. To move forward, the area needs public support, which grows with each new example of success—such as the Alamo Brewery or Indatatech, which has plans to expand and relocate to the East Side with help from an investment by SAGE. “There are so many examples of revitalization working,” she says. “We just have to keep working toward our goals, together, as a community.”

Fact File

Age: 54Favorite Project: Redevelopment of Wheatley CourtHonored: Named top female executive for a large business by the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce